Autumn-Scented Finger Paints

I have heard that the sense of smell is the sense most closely tied to memory. And it makes sense, when you think about childhood: sunscreen for summer, rainstorms for spring, and hot chocolate for winter. Autumn may be the most odoriferous season of them all, with leaf piles, pumpkin pies and apple cider just a few of the things I remember most vividly. Check out this project that combines homey smells with homespun art.

This idea comes from Almost Unschoolers, and it is a timely one. Adding spices such as cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice to a homemade finger paint recipe results in works of art that please the nose as well as the eye. Choosing autumnal themes for the paintings reenforces the fall effect. The recipe for the paint is simple (and edible), made from standard kitchen ingredients. So the next time a chilly October rainstorm drives the kids inside, whip up some of these finger paints and keep their senses busy.